Scenic viewing spot closed down after Laos clashes

RARE armed clashes in Laos believed to be linked to drug smuggling have forced Thailand to close a popular mountain viewing point on the border and prompted a security warning from the United States.

Thai national park officials said on Monday that the Phu Chi Fa scenic spot, on the border with Laos in northern Chiang Rai pro­vince, has been closed until further notice.